Dedicated servers for Aliens vs Predator

The PC version of licensed shooter Aliens vs Predator will support dedicated servers, according to a new statement made by British developer Rebellion.

"Despite rumours, Rebellion has always been planning to support dedicated servers for Aliens vs Predator PC and we can now officially confirm that this is the case. Rebellion has always appreciated fan support," said Rebellion CEO Jason Kingsley. "We're really looking forward to the release of Aliens vs Predator as much as you guys are!"

Previously senior producer David Brickley had remained uncommitted on the question, commenting: "You know what the internet's like. We're obviously used to getting things for free over the years. I guess on our side the thing we're focusing on is whatever your set-up at home, you get the best possible experience from it. We're just trying to use our time and resources wisely."

Brickley's comments were made just as the question of dedicated servers was becoming a flashpoint topic with PC users, following Infinity Ward's decision not to support the style of service. Despite a more than 220,000 signature strong petition Activision indicated it was "not overly concerned" at the backlash.

Nevertheless, other PC developers immediately made their position clear, with both Battlefield's DICE and Brink's Splash Damage committing to continued use of dedicated servers.

John Carmack of iD Software surprised many though, when he admitted that the forthcoming game Rage would probably not support dedicated servers and described them as a remnant of the early days of PC gaming.

Carmack even seemed appreciative that Activision had taken the initial brunt of fan outrage."The great thing is we won't have to be a pioneer on that," he said to Hollywood trade paper Variety. "We’ll see how it works out for everyone else."